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Open Society Foundations Grants Officer


The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant societies whose governments are accountable and open to the participation of all people.
We seek to strengthen the rule of law; respect for human rights, minorities, and a diversity of opinions; democratically elected governments; and a civil society that helps keep government power in check.
We help to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights.
We implement initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media.
We build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information.
Working in every part of the world, the Open Society Foundations place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities.
Purpose of Position
The Office of Grants Management (OGM) oversees legal and administrative compliance and effects responsible stewardship for the grant-making activity of the Open Society Foundations. The office improves and streamlines grant-making operations through the adoption of innovative technologies and industry best practices. OGM educates and guides staff and grantees on grant-making operations, encouraging timely processing of grants. It responds to the foundation's needs for compliance and information by managing the daily flow of grant-related data and documentation for the Foundations’ grants. Work of the grants officer is carried out independently/under general supervision.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. The Open Society Foundations may add, change, or remove essential and other duties at any time.
  • Conduct pre-award due diligence to ensure that grants are consistent with statutory requirements and foundation policies;
  • Prepare, issue and monitor grant agreements, payments and modifications;
  • Monitor grantee reporting requirements and evaluate grantee narrative and financial reports to ensure administrative and legal compliance;
  • Train and orient staff on legal, business and system requirements for grant processing from receipt of an application through grant closeout;
  • Negotiate and facilitate sensitive issues in the grantmaking process;
  • Develop and oversee standard terms and conditions for grant agreements and formal correspondence, in conjunction with legal department;
  • Assure integrity of data in the grantmaking system and provide reporting and analysis;
  • Administer application processes using the online application system;
  • Liaise with program and administrative department staff to ensure grant related activities are implemented efficiently; 
  • Maintain grant files, including close, consolidate and archive completed grant files;
  • Assist in finalization of grant lists and other statutory reporting;
  • Travel may be required;
  • Perform other duties assigned.
Education / Experience
Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university and three to five years of relevant experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Skills Required
  • Work effectively in a fast-paced environment, troubleshoot and follow projects through to completion, with strict deadlines and without loss of attention to detail;
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills;
  • Excellent computer skills, proficient in Microsoft Office;
  • Effectively work as a team member and independently, with a high-level of self-motivation and ability to set and meet goals;
  • Exercise good listening and communication skills with sensitivity to cultural communication differences;
  • Show discretion and ability to handle confidential issues.
  • Knowledge of key organizations and networks active in the field;
  • Pleasant, diplomatic manner and disposition in interacting with colleagues and the general public.
Program Specific Requirements
  • Fluency in Spanish and English (strong written and verbal skills) highly desirable;
  • Master of Public Administration or other relevant advanced degree preferred;
  • Ability to communicate effectively with staff at all levels of the foundation;
  • Prior work in foundations, nonprofits or foundation-focus areas preferred;
  • Good judgment, resourcefulness and problem-solving skills;
  • Knowledge of SalesForce/Foundation Connect or other grants management software preferred;
  • Ability to communicate effectively with staff at all levels of the foundation.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
Essential functions are typically performed in an office setting with a low level of noise. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Compensation
Commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.
Application Instructions
Please email resume and cover letter with salary requirements to:humanresources@opensocietyfoundations.org. Include job code in subject line: GO-GM.


Application Deadline:
March 22, 2013
Include job code in subject line: GO-GM
Mail:
Open Society Foundations
Human Resources – CodeGO-GM
224 West 57th Street
New York, New York 10019